Innovation in the Wake of Devastation: How Joplin Schools Jumpstarted a 21st Century Learning Plan

Session 5: Friday, November 11 from 9:45 - 10:45am
Traci D. House,Joplin Schools
Klista Reynolds,Joplin Schools
John Canuel,Blackboard, Inc.


Session Information


  • Location: 209 (Click Here to View the Session Map)
  • Track: Diamond Sponsor Session
  • Grade Level Focus: 9-12
  • Experience Level: Level 101 - For beginners new to the field (0-1 years experience in K-12 Online Learning)|Level 201 - For intermediate level participants (2-4 years experience in K-12 Online Learning)|Level 301 - For advanced participants (5+ years of experience in K-12 Online Learning)
  • Exhibitor: Yes
  • Requires Purchase of Product to Implement: Yes

Session Description

Our story depicts the timeline of events in Joplin Schools from the devastation of May 22, 2011 through present day. As our district's high school was completely destroyed by the EF5 tornado, we quickly recognized that the opportune time to fast-forward our 21st Century Learning implementation plan was now. Key components included the decision not to replace textbooks, the issuance of 2,200 laptops as 24/7 learning tools, and a renewed focus on virtual learning. It looks to be a very good year.


Session Twitter Hashtag: #vss209s5




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